{"id":1523,"date":"2024-06-29T18:13:18","date_gmt":"2024-06-29T18:13:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/zimdailyjournal.co.zw\/?p=1523"},"modified":"2024-07-01T23:21:40","modified_gmt":"2024-07-01T23:21:40","slug":"undp-empowers-local-authorities-through-afcfta-training","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/zimdailyjournal.co.zw\/index.php\/2024\/06\/29\/undp-empowers-local-authorities-through-afcfta-training\/","title":{"rendered":"UNDP, Local Government to empower local authorities with AfCFTA training"},"content":{"rendered":"

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe<\/strong> \u2013 <\/em>\u00a0The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works (MoLGPW) is set to conduct a series of training workshops aimed at strengthening the capabilities of local authorities to engage effectively with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).<\/p>\n

In a statement, UNDP confirmed that the workshops will be held from Bulawayo, from June 30 to July 4.<\/strong><\/p>\n

In Mutare it will be from from July 7 to July 11.<\/p>\n

“The Constitution of Zimbabwe mandates economic devolution, empowering local authorities to act as economic hubs.<\/p>\n

“This initiative is part of the broader goal to deepen democracy and promote sustainable, equitable development across the country.<\/p>\n

“The AfCFTA represents a significant opportunity for Zimbabwean local economies to boost intra-African trade, stimulate economic growth, and foster development.”<\/p>\n

UNDP said, the objectives of the workshops will be to equip local authorities.<\/p>\n

“Equip local authorities with a comprehensive understanding of the AfCFTA’s objectives, principles, and institutional framework.<\/p>\n

“Explore the potential impacts of AfCFTA on local economies, businesses, and communities.<\/p>\n

“Identify opportunities for trade facilitation, investment, and industrial development in line with AfCFTA objectives.<\/p>\n

“Address potential challenges and risks associated with AfCFTA implementation at the local level and guide mitigation strategies.”<\/p>\n

The outcomes of the participants’ training will be to gain enhanced understanding of the AfCFTA, enabling effective engagement with the trade agreement.<\/p>\n

“Increased awareness of opportunities presented by AfCFTA for local economies, businesses, and communities.<\/p>\n

“Development of action plans to guide the implementation of AfCFTA-related initiatives.<\/p>\n

“Strengthened collaboration among local authorities for knowledge-sharing and joint initiatives.<\/p>\n

“Improved capacity for trade promotion and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).”<\/p>\n

Training Schedule<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n

The training will be conducted in a workshop format, spanning 3-4 working days, with local authorities divided by geographical location.<\/p>\n

Agenda Highlights<\/strong><\/p>\n